Medina Community Choir has celebrated its 20th anniversary in style with a week-long tour of Paris, which saw 50 members perform in churches and at some of the French capital’s most famous landmarks.
The Isle of Wight choir travelled to Paris in early August, performing at 3 churches during the trip.
Members also staged impromptu performances at iconic locations including the Eiffel Tower and on the steps of Sacré-Cœur in Montmartre.
The tour was particularly significant as the choir celebrates 20 years of singing together in 2026.
Choir Director Hannah Brear has said:
“Our choir goes on tour every 2 years and this year, being our 20th year of singing together, it seemed only right to celebrate in style with a tour to Paris, accompanied by our world-class Orchestra of the Gods, led by James Longford.
“There were too many highlights to mention them all here, but top of my list would be a 5-minute standing ovation after singing to a packed church at our final concert, singing at the top of the Eiffel Tower, singing in Saint Sulpice and swimming in the Seine!
Article continues below this advertisement “I’m always amazed at how the choir rises to the occasion, works so seamlessly together, and adapts to each new venue. They are an incredible group of people and more like a family, really.”
Medina Community Choir began as a small school community ensemble but has since developed into a large, whole-Island choir.
Its members range in age from teenagers to people in their 70s, with the choir performing music spanning pop, classical, gospel and musical theatre.
Now back on the Isle of Wight, the group is preparing for its autumn and winter season – and is inviting new members to get involved.
Hannah added:
“Many of our members don’t sight-read, but that’s not a barrier to the high standards we reach.
“Aside from enjoying the music, singing regularly is a fantastic way to help your breathing and memory, and being part of a community choir is very sociable, too.
“I can’t wait to start our Autumn/Winter season on 3rd September, where we’re going to be trying out some brand-new arrangements for our Christmas concerts!”
Rehearsals for the autumn term begin in Carisbrooke, Newport, on 3rd September, ahead of the choir’s Christmas concerts in December.
More information about Medina Community Choir and how to join can be found here.
